Company Sets Sights on Constructing Japan’s First LNG-Fueled Tugboat

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL) announced the company’s decision to build an LNG-fueled tugboat. The new tugboat, the first LNG-fueled tug in Japan, will be constructed at Kanagawa Dockyard Co. and will be operated by Nihon Tug-Boat Co. The new tugboat is slated to be deployed in Osaka Bay in April 2019.

The tugboat will be equipped with high-performance dual fuel engines that allows for both high-speed operation and superior environmental performance. It will be the first LNG-fueled tugboat to escort large-scale freighters in Osaka Bay and the Seto Inland Sea. The development of this tugboat will also spur the initial development of an LNG fuel supply system for vessels in Osaka Bay.

The construction of this tugboat also reflects MOL’s proactive stance in promoting LNG fuel through technological development of LNG-fueled vessels. MOL continually strives to promote and expand its environment and emission-free businesses, seizing opportunities presented by efforts to reduce the environmental impact of the global shipping industry.